Short Update: Air Nigeria, Kabo Air, Arik Air, and Aero

The CEO of Air Nigeria, Kinfe Kahssaye, announced that the carrier is in the process of leasing another three or four 737s – all older variants – which will bring its fleet to around 11 aircraft in three months’ time. Air Nigeria also intends to modernise by leasing ‘a number’ of modern-variant Boeing 737s ‘in the near future’. He says the airline plans to introduce them in the first half of 2011.

The ERJ-145LR (5N-BJM) owned by the Bauchi State Government is now leased to Kabo Air and recently received the airline’s livery.

Arik Air delayed the introduction of the A332 (5N-EIA) again; the aircraft is still at Châteauroux. The airline will now switch an A345 from the Lagos-London route to the Lagos-Johannesburg route to cope with the World Cup traffic. Flights to London will be operated with a B738.

Media reports that CHC Helicopter and Aero Contractors had severed their business relationship are incorrect. Although Aero is facing challenging times, CHC Helicopter continues to support its business partner and to provide flying services for oil and gas industry.